Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) research are emerging in the last few years providing non-invasive, wireless and low-cost ElectroEncephaloGraphy (EEG) devices. The increasing study of neurosciences and the need to respond to specific human brain diseases are two important factors to this evolution.
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Saturday, November 29, 2014

Muse: the brain sensing headband.

Interaxon from Canada recently announced the launch of a new EEG reading device: MUSE (version 2). As the old version, it measures the electric activity produced by the brain searching for behavior patterns and identifying states of mind. Basically uses alpha waves (8-12Hz) to find if the person is calm and focused or when is wandering.

Muse is the mental equivalent of a treadmill, which helps you exercise your brain with focused attention training. It improves your attention by training you to become aware of your distractions quicker and react faster to regain focus on what you’re doing.

Connected to a Smartphone it will process the signals in real-time alerting you if get distracted and helping you catch to regain focus increasing the productive in your activity.

According to the company, the main advantages that this product offers are:

It motivates you to change your brain

Studies show that the focused-attention and mindfulness exercises upon which Muse is based can cause the brain to change itself, making it more resistant to distractions. Muse makes this process more motivating, fun and efficient.

It improves how you respond to stress

In the short-term, this training has been shown to trigger the natural relaxation response – a state of deep rest that changes the physiological and emotional responses to stress. Your metabolism decreases and your heartbeat slows. The muscles relax, breathing becomes slower, and blood pressure decreases.

It gives you a lasting feeling of self-control

Stress is thought of as a perceived lack of control or unpredictability, associated with impaired cognitive performance, higher blood pressure, lowered immunity, and many more negative effects.

It can improve your emotional state

We often think of distraction as something external, like the sound of a nearby conversation. However, Muse’s feedback algorithms are tailored to respond to both external and internal distractions.

Extended use can have amazing and lasting results

A study showed that 20 minutes of focused attention training for 3 days in a row has been shown to reduce pain, reduce anxiety, improve mood, and reduce heart rate.

It is designed to help you form the habit

Research has shown using an app and starting with 3-5 minutes can dramatically help you with mental exercises like meditation. Muse starts you with 3 minute sessions and rewards you for your achievements, making sure it’s easy and motivating to train with Muse.